Premiere Orlando

                         

Last weekend was the Orlando Premiere hair show. It's always so exciting for me to get on stage to talk about my true passion, haircolor. This year I ventured into something different and taught two hands-on workshops. It was a new experience and I loved being able to watch people grow as they learned something new.

 

                       

I want to raise the standard in the art of haircolor applications. Teaching the people in our industry new and exciting things make a difference behind the chair. I went in depth about the visual difference in a soft ombre and the American ombre. Not having a visual starting point for your lighter ends is so sexy. Another technique I taught was Over The Top, it is perfect for transitioning your guest from season to season. Whether it be incorporating more highlights or lowlights, it's perfect for giving them that new look for spring or fall.

I am so excited to be on my way to the International Beauty Show in Las Vegas at the end of the month. Visit their website and register for my class. I can't wait to see you all there!

                            

Look out for my next video on Youtube! I will be discussing men's haircolor and gray blending. Last year 18-20% of color services sold were men's color. Using the right product and having the right education will keep men coming back for more color services and increase your revenue. I can't wait to share this information with you, so make sure to check my Youtube channel for when that will be posted.

Sherry Ratay's Formulas featured on Behind The Chair!

I wrote an article for Behind The Chair about Summer Color Formulas. Visit Behind The Chair's website to see more!

5 Sizzlin' Celebrity Summer Shades

Celebrity color serves as the inspiration for both you and your clients. Whether it’s Emma Stone’s reddish-blonde ombré, Kim Kardashian’s chocolate brown or Jessica Chastain’s vibrant red—these hues are always in demand! At the Sherry Ratay Salon in Orlando, FL, Owner Sherry is constantly asked to recreate A-list shades. The following are the most requested hues in her salon and in her work as a Minardi Artistic Colorist. Here she shares her no-fail formulas and techniques for bringing these in-demand shades to your color-enthused clients. 

Giuliana Ranic

 

Starting Level: 4
Formula A (highlights): Beth Minardi Signature Permanent 2 oz. ICE Ice Age + 2 oz. 40-volume developer
Formula B (glaze): Beth Minardi Signature Demi-Liquid 2 oz. 10 Ice Hi Ho Silver + 2 oz. 5-volume developer

Starting in the front panel with a technique called “Over The Top." Apply Formula A, using soft delicate strokes within your foils while focusing on the front frame. Process for 45 minutes.  Shampoo and dry. Glaze all strands with Formula B, process for 20 minutes, shampoo and dry the hair.

Jennifer Garner

 

Starting Level: 4 with 40% gray
Formula A (retouch): Joico Vero-Lights + 20-volume developer
Formula B (ombré): Joico Vero-Lights + 20-volume developer
Formula C (glaze): Beth Minardi Signature Demi-Liquid 1 ½ oz. 9NB Almond Parfait + ½ oz. 6B Bambi +  2 oz. 5-volume developer

Apply Formula A  to touch-up gray roots. After finishing the retouch application, apply Formula B starting at the nape to create  a soft ombré. Using a Joico Vero-Lights color brush, blend the color in so there is NO visual starting point.  Lift to a soft, yellow, shampoo and dry the hair. Glaze all strands with Formula C, process for 15 minutes, shampoo, condition and style.

Kate Winslet

 

Starting Level: 6
Formula A (highlights): Beth Minardi Signature Permanent 2 oz. 12 BB Antarctica + 2 oz. 40-volume developer
Formula B (lowlights): Beth Minardi Signature Demi Crème 2 oz. 9BG Cornsilk + 2 oz. 5-volume developer
Formula C (glaze): Beth Minardi Signature Demi Liquid 2 oz. 10G Buttercream + 2 oz. 5-volume developer

Beginning at the nape, working up and then following with the sides and top, alternate between Formulas A and B to create soft dimension. Process for 30 minutes, shampoo and dry the hair. Glaze all strands using Formula C, process for 15 minutes, shampoo and style.

Jayma Mays

 

Starting Level: 5
Formula A (retouch): Beth Minardi Signature Permanent 1 oz. 16G Golden Sable +1 oz. 7OG Valencia + 2 oz. 20-volume developer
Formula B (highlights): Beth Minardi Signature Permanent 2 oz. 11GO Creamsicle +2 oz. 40-volume developer
Formula C (highlights): Beth Minardi Signature Demi Crème 2 oz. 7NCG Peach Bellini + 2 oz. 5-volume developer
Formula D (glaze): Beth Minardi Signature Demi Liquid 2 oz. 10C Peach Chiffon + 2 oz. 5-volume developer

Apply Formula A  to touch-up gray roots. After finishing the retouch application, alternate Formulas B and C and process for 30 minutes, then shampoo and dry the hair. Glaze all strand with Formula D, process for 15 minutes, shampoo and style.

Marcia Cross

 

Starting Level:  6 with 50% gray
Formula A (retouch): Beth Minardi Signature Permanent 1 oz. 6NCB Fawn + ½ oz. 7OG Valencia +  ½ oz. 8RG Autumn Harvest + 2 oz. 20-volume developer
Formula B (midlengths and ends): Beth Minardi Signature Demi Liquid 2 oz. 10C Peach Chiffon + ½ oz. 6CG Mango + 2 ½ oz. 5-volume developer

Apply Formula A  to touch-up gray roots. Apply Formula B to midlengths and ends, process for 45 minutes, shampoo and style.

 

A Healthy Lifestyle In The Beauty Industry

I want to expand on my last blog about taking care of myself and being in the beauty industry. This time I want to focus on how I stay healthy and why it’s important to stay in shape.

A healthy lifestyle is important to me first, because it makes me feel good. Eating the right foods and working out on a regular basis gives me the energy I need to keep up with my daily life. I believe it is very important for me to teach my kids to be aware of how eating healthy and exercising has many great benefits. In the last 34 years obesity has become more prevalent in our society. Statistics show that 30% of adults are considered obese and there is a constant battle with childhood obesity. I feel it is my duty as a mother to make my children aware of these statistics so they continue to have a healthy mindset.

Now I’ve always been a healthy eater, so it’s not much of a chore for me to stay on the right path of eating. I love fruits and veggies. Cooking is how I relax during the week. I love being able to prepare fresh, healthy meals for my family. Dinner time is very important to me, being able to sit down with my children and husband discussing their days is great family time. I bring the leftovers to work with me the next day. A few favorites of mine are roasted beets, sautéed kale with onions and garlic, chicken and romaine lettuce on the grill. Delicious! That being said, I still love my dark chocolate and red wine. But of course all in moderation. Ladies, I'm sure many of you fight the same fight I do with your husbands. When I want to cook a nice healthy meal, my husband wants to bring home an extra large cheesy pizza, have McDonald's for lunch or eat ice cream for dessert every night. I know it's a hard battle, but don't give up! 

I am also very conscious about the foods I buy. I strongly believe that all the chemicals used to make our foods grow have an effect on our bodies. I am on Food Inc.'s website on a regular basis researching and reading up on the latest food studies. I check which foods are good to buy organic (to avoid GMOs) and which foods I can get away with buying non-organic. I visit my local farmer's market to buy my organic fruits and vegetables. Publix has their GreenWise (all natural and organic)section. They have a wide variety of meats, cheeses, cereals and so much more. Next time you go to your local grocery store, check to see if they have a similar section.

I have to say that as far as exercising, I love having my personal trainer. Matt Arena of Arena Fitness (based out of Lake Mary, FL.) keeps me accountable for my exercise, my eating habits, he knows my goals and keeps me on track. When I exercise with Matt, he makes sure I have proper form and pushes me harder than I would push myself. I love it! My favorite thing is boxing. (Try this ladies, it's a great stress reliever!) When I don't exercise with Matt, I will ride bikes with my children and go on long walks with my husband (good for both our mental and physical health). Even when I travel, I make my way to the hotel gym in the morning.

Like I mentioned in my last blog, this is what works for me and how I choose to raise my family. I know not everyone can dedicate all the time I do, but I wanted to share the healthy choices I make in my life. I know everyone's life is different, what matters is that you put in the effort (even if it's small). You don't have to join a gym or see a personal trainer, but go for a walk with your kids after dinner or substitute your morning frappe for a green tea. Making those little changes in your life make all the difference in the world.

 

 

 

** Make sure you speak and consult your family physician before starting an exercise routine.

A Look Into My Personal Skin Care

Being a distinguished figure in the beauty industry, I take great pride in taking care of my skin. Some would say I'm a bit of a fanatic, but I do feel as though it is very important for everyone to take care of their skin. I started in my late 20's, but wish I had begun taking care of my skin earlier.

Each morning I wake up and begin my beauty regimen with my Secret Face Pads (I get mine from Sally's Beauty Supply) and my Image Ageless Total Facial Cleanser. I never cleanse my face in a full stream of water, because I have to protect my beautiful eyelash extensions done by the fabulous Ellen Choo. After cleansing my face I put Environ's Vitamin E on my lips and more Vitamin E on my face, not forgetting about my décolletage (the neck and chest area). I must say that it is equally as important to apply products to the décolletage area as it is the rest of the face. The two main areas you can tell a woman's age is the top of her hands and her décolletage. To protect my hands I use a special moisturizer I got from the vineyard I visited in Tuscany, Italy.



After I use the Vitamin E, I move onto my eyes. I start with a Cellex-C drop and apply it just above my eyebrows. After that, I dab on my eye cream with my ring finger (because it is the lightest of all your fingers on the most delicate skin on your face) around the bottom of my eyes. Moving on from my eyes, I start to concentrate on my full face and décolletage area again. I use BetaPlex by Cellex-C all over. I love the tingly feeling on my skin. Continuing with Cellex-C, I use their tightening cream starting at my face and work down my neck. And before I finish with my SPF 32 Eminence moisturizer, I use PCA's Perfecting Neck and Décolletage cream.



After a long day of work, I can't wait to get home and pamper myself all over again. Even though my husband constantly asks, Babe, what is all that sh*t you are putting on my face? I smile, ignore him and begin my nightly routine.

I begin my night regimen the same way I start my morning, protecting my lashes and cleansing with Image Ageless Total Facial Cleanser. After that, once a week I make it a must to exfoliate and apply a mask by Cellex-C. Now, no woman likes the sight of fine lines, baggy skin that looks dull and tired. So to prevent and fight against all of this I apply two types of Retinol (a high dose derivative of Vitamin A). A mild one for my décolletage and a slightly stronger one for my face (Retinol can be found in different doses of strength). Following my Retinol treatment I move on to my PCA Collagen Hydrating Night Cream to add plumpness to my skin and fight the signs of aging.

Many of you may think "DEAR LORD! That's a lot of steps, products or even attention to one's face!" But this is what works for me and makes me feel great. And it doesn't hurt that my skin looks 10 years younger. ;) I don't expect or think all these steps are necessary for everyone. Every skin type and life style is different. Create the perfect skin care regimen that works for you!

**I want to note a few important things. One being that I see my esthetician, Marisa Spagnoli (who only sells me my PCA products), every 4 weeks for a facial and every 8 weeks for a chemical peel. Marisa is the owner of Majestic Skin and Massage. I would also like it noted that I get all of my products prescribed by a professional. Concerning my Image, Cellex-C, Environ and Eminence products, these were all prescribed by a prior esthetician.

IBS NY

A couple weeks ago I traveled to New York City for the International Beauty Show with my manager, Jacob and my designer, Alicia. This year I taught my first hands-on workshop. Leading up to the show and the class itself was exhilarating and nerve-racking all at the same time. I just couldn't wait to be sharing my knowledge and passion with other colorists.

Once the class was over I was so pleased. So many great moments to remember, but if I had to pinpoint three specific things, I'd have to say I loved the interaction I had with everyone. Being able to show them how to hold a foil, hold the brush at an angle and how to thoroughly saturate each section thus creating art within the hair. I also enjoyed being able to spend so much quality time with like minded colorists. And lastly, being able to share the excitement of what Beth Minardi Signature is capable of.

On the other hand, I do wish I had more time to spend with the students who came to my class. That being said, I just love that after my first hands-on workshop that I got some positive feedback from some of the people attending my class:

 

I was in your color class at the IBS in New York on Sunday. The class has helped me so much behind my chair! My favorite tip was the foil placement and how color can bounce around as opposed to being placed in lines straight up and down. I am paying it forward in the salon. Looking forward to seeing you soon! Thank you Sherry!

During our free time, we spent time with Robin Kassner having drinks at The Rose Club inside The Plaza Hotel. We had a lovely time. After walking around the city for a bit, we found Jake's Saloon. We just had to go in since Jacob was with me. It was such a good time!


In my next blog, I will be talking about hair chalking. I'm so excited to share my thoughts and techniques on this new trend!

Punk Color in London Town

I recently spent a few days in London with my daughter. It was a great time!

Buckingham Palace

While we were there we did the tourist thing and climbed aboard a double decker and took in the exciting atmosphere. We saw many London landmarks, of course the  Buckingham Palace and Big Ben were our favorites. Being that it was a girls weekend, you couldn't go to London and not shop! Once our shopping wore us out, we had to try the world famous fish and chips. We split the dish and it was so good that we had to stop ourselves from ordering a second plate, it was absolutely delicious.



Punk color I saw in London
 

Now of course you know I can't visit a new region of the world without taking notice of my haircolor surroundings. The most popular trend I saw in London was PUNK COLOR! It was everywhere and I loved it.

When I think of punk color, I think of drawing on the sidewalk as a kid with chalk. Pastel pinks and blues, lime greens and steely grays. I love the free style of it and how it's for all ages. I feel as long as the color fits the right personality, I could break my own molds and have fun and completely free hand some awesome punk color!

Zooey Deschanel

Bettie Page

The favorite design style I saw for women was the fringe bang! It was everywhere and all varying lengths. From short like Bettie Page to a long full bang like Zooey Deschanel. As for the men, mohawks were definitely in! They weren't thin like what you think of when you initially think of a mohawk, they were temple wide. I loved it.
 


I can't wait to visit more regions and cultures to see what the world of haircolor and design has to offer. What are some of your favorite trends you've seen?

Beauty News' Rave Review

A fabulous review by Patricia Wersinger with Beauty News NYC! Read all of the fantastic things she had to say below and then be sure to check out the website at http://www.beautynewsnyc.com.

 

Color with a Star at Julien Farel

Julien Farel salon is part of a handful of select salons in New York City just off 57th Street that enjoy a formidable reputation among steady habitués. The official hair dresser to the US Open for four consecutive years, Julien Farel also enjoys a nice following among celeb beauties like Ivanka Trump, Salma Hayek and Lea Michele. The salon is handsomely designed and run swiftly by a courteous staff. I visited it recently to meet internationally acclaimed celebrity hair colorist Sherry Retay, an award winning color expert who is a part of “MAC,” Beth Minardi’s elite Minardi Artistic Colorists team. She comes to the salon once a month to give New Yorkers a chance to discover her unique talent. Sherry resides in Central Florida where her luxurious salon, Salon Ratay, is located. She was named number one hair colorist by Orlando Magazine, and I was determined to find out why.

Just a glance at Sherry’s own hair and I knew I was dealing with the real deal; a colorist who is her own best advertisement. Her hair is vibrant, sexy and lustrously textured – it’s exactly what Sherry believes any woman’s ultimate beauty accessory should be: great color perfectly suited to you. And this is what she created for me, examining my hair color in proportion to my skin type and hair texture, the shape of my face. Sherry felt that my color lacked dimension and depth and decided on a combination of two blonde colors to create the missing pop. She applied Beth Minardi Signature Permanent 9BG “Chardonnay” on my roots and refreshed my ends with Beth Minardi Signature Demi-liquid 10 G “Buttercream.” She used foils to create a light balayage effect for subtler dimension and her assistant, Alicia, washed my hair using Minardi Luxury Color care Wash #2 and Afterwash #2, both designed to prepare and strengthen hair that has been colored by a permanent dye, with a dose of Phyto-Collagen and Ceramide.

Alicia styled my hair after Sherry applied the Minardi Luxury glaze. I assure you, if you have the pleasure getting this glaze, you will want to come every week and get it done again! When my hair was blow-dried I looked like the best version of my self I had seen in a long while. My hair color was vivid and natural looking but lustrous and better textured. The blend of blondes perfectly matched my skin’s complexion.
You can inquire at the Julien Farel about Sherry’s next appearance. I recommend taking the opportunity to have your hair colored by one of the top colorists in the country on those monthly treks she makes to the colder, part of the east coast.

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.beautynewsnyc.com/hair-care/color-star-julien-farel/